soubrette

(so̵̅o̅ bret′)

noun

in a play, light opera, etc., the role of a lady's maid, esp. one involved in intrigue, or of any pretty, flirtatious, or frivolous young woman
an actress who plays such roles

Origin: Fr < Prov soubreto < soubret, affected, sly < soubra, to put aside, exceed < L superare, to be above: see super-

See soubrette in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

a. A saucy, coquettish, intriguing maidservant in comedies or comic opera.
b. An actress or a singer taking such a part.
A young woman regarded as flirtatious or frivolous.

Origin:

Origin: French

Origin: , from Provençal soubreto

Origin: , feminine of soubret, conceited

Origin: , from soubra, to leave aside

Origin: , from Old Provençal sobrar, to be excessive

Origin: , from Latin superāre

Origin: , from super, above; see uper in Indo-European roots

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